Kitchen

What would be the best way to go work in a kitchen (say Manresa or ChefSteps) if all you have is a Business Degree (from say USC) and 0 professional kitchen experience but you really like cooking but you're just a novice?

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tshewman

I've often wondered the same but would likely include begging.

digitaldookiez

Most kitchens are open to you staging with them (free). If you can prove that you are able to do things diligently and are passionate, they may consider hiring you or at least recommending you to another kitchen.

Meagan_3284

I would say research the restaurants in your area you are interested in working in. Get some kitchen shoes and a few essential tools (Chef knife, paring knife, peeler, microplane) to start. Go in to each restaurant ready to work with confidence and tell them the truth. Tell them exactly this and ask for a shot. Most places will let you stage like David said, if you do work out, great! If not, move on to the next one.

michaelnatkin

I have a post on my old personal blog that may be helpful: http://herbivoracious.com/2012/03/so-you-want-to-stage-intern-at-a-restaurant.html . I would also say, I wouldn't aim for Manresa on the first try! Start small.

tangma27

I've actually read your post a couple times before! It helped a lot

Nicholas_Gavin_68199

First off, do your homework on the restaurant. Fist strike is when someone asks for a stage and doesn't know the name of the head chef. It is also very important to understand, that a week stage actually doesn't help out the restaurant that much. You will need to be prepared to dedicate a minimum of a month of your time and your undivided attention. So save some money up and knock on some doors and show the chef how bad you want it.

tangma27

Thanks Nick!